FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Cumberland County is preparing for the impacts of Hurricane Michael as it moves north from Florida. Cumberland County is under a Tropical Storm warning. Emergency Services staff is monitoring the progress and development of the storm and is communicating with partner agencies about potential response efforts.

Based on the information at 11:30 a.m. from the National Weather Service, the risks for the county include the potential for high winds, heavy rains, localized flooding and the possibility for isolated tornadoes. There is the potential for power outages and downed trees with 20-30 mph sustained winds and occasional gusts up 40-50 mph. Periods of heavy downpours could result in localized flash flooding of creeks, streams, and areas of poor drainage.

Cumberland County will activate its Emergency Operations Center at 8 a.m. Thursday, with staffing through Friday morning.

Larry Lancaster, Chairman of the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners, signed the attached State of Emergency declaration effective at 8 a.m. Thursday.

Opening of shelters is not warranted at this time; partners will be ready should this becomes necessary.

Out-of-county response assets and pre-positioning of resources are not warranted at this time.

Flash flooding of creeks and streams can occur as 3- to 5-inches of rain is expected to fall in a short period of time. Some areas may see 4- to 6-inches of rainfall. The Cape Fear and Little Rivers are expected to rise within a couple of days after the rainfall.

Residents are encouraged to visit the County’s website at co.cumberland.nc.us and follow the County on social media sites for the latest information on the hurricane. To receive emergency notifications, sign up for Cumberland Alerts by visiting co.cumberland.nc.us/alerts.